The tongue can be rightly described as the control knob of life. This much is said by James in his writing: “My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment. For we all stumble in many things. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body.” James 3:1-2 NKJV. If we understand how easily we could be trapped by our words, we would take the warning of our text seriously and speak sparingly. The verse before us immediately evokes the memory of Jephthah. Zealous to defend his people in battle, he made a rash vow. He promised the Lord that if he enjoyed His help and became victorious, whatever he sighted first on his return would be a burnt sacrifice to the Lord. The Lord honoured His side of the deal – Jephthah won. Unfortunately, it was his daughter and only child that came out first from his house to meet him. The joy of victory was cut short because of this. A vow that he did not think through was his undoing.

Some people over-promise only to under-perform…Others speak rather too much, making themselves fools in the process…He was demonstrating the fact that to hold one’s tongue in check is a manifestation of wisdom.

The issue at stake stretches beyond vows that we make to the Lord; it is actually the need to weigh our words and make them few. Some people over-promise only to under-perform. Very soon their words are received with a pinch of salt. Others speak rather too much, making themselves fools in the process. As the scripture says, when there are too many words, sin will not be lacking. It is either exaggeration is found or you over commit yourselves. Have you considered the fact that there were several occasions where the Master refused to say anything? He was demonstrating the fact that to hold one’s tongue in check is a manifestation of wisdom.